Welcome to Michael's blog. Michael Andrew, (aka Michael The Maven) is a freelance producer, photography instructor, tech innovator, and when needed, disaster aid specialist. Disclaimer: Michael is a participant in Bhphoto & Amazon affiliate programs that provides an advertising commission if you purchase through links on this website.
Canon Speedlite 600 EX-RT vs 580EXii - Is it worth the extra cost?
Here is my latest gear review on the Canon Speedlite 600EX-RT. As you will see below, we have also just recently finished our Crash Course Training Tutorial Video on the 600, and as far as I know it is the only one available right now:
A couple notes on this video and the comparison between the two (as well as for clarity:)
Pros: - Almost no miss fires with the 600's, and when it happened it was a battery issue (they were out of juice).
- The Dot Matrix Screen is much more pleasing to the eye and easier to understand.
- Once you get the hang of the controls, it is quicker and easier to navigate.
- The 600 is very, very similar in functionality to a 580EXii. Guide number wise, they are pretty much the same.
- I LOVE the dedicated wireless button the 600, it is very fast and pretty easy to get the hang of using.
- Yes I have personally upgraded, but I am not so convinced spending all that extra money was worth it, because I do not do tons and tons of off camera flash work. For most purposes, the 580 will work great.
- Mad props to Canon for changing the ST-E3 batteries to double A's. The battery for the ST-E2 was expensive ($20 each) and this adds a lot of value to the transmitter. The ST-E3 is also significantly smaller and lighter than the ST-E2.
Cons: - As mentioned in the video, price is the biggest con.
- The 600's are a big bigger and heavier than the 580's
- The lack of optical controls and AF assist on the ST-E3 is irking to say the least.
- Not a fan that I have to push the -/+ button in Manual mode, even with the shortcut activated in C.Fn 13.
